On December 6, 2024, the Auditorium Theatre in Chicago hosted a remarkable celebration for Mavis Staples’ 85th birthday. The event, sponsored by Magellan, brought together employees, friends, and music lovers to honor an artist whose voice and influence have shaped American culture. With nearly 50 members of the Magellan community in attendance, the night was a tribute to the enduring impact of Staples’ career.

Staples began her journey as part of The Staple Singers, a family group that became a key force in gospel and soul music. Songs like "I'll Take You There" and "Respect Yourself" not only dominated the airwaves but also provided a soundtrack to the civil rights movement. Performing at rallies and events alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., The Staple Singers used their talent to inspire change and solidarity.

As a solo performer, Staples continued to break boundaries, collaborating with artists across genres to address social issues and elevate powerful messages. Her voice, filled with depth and authenticity, has touched hearts and motivated action for decades.

The evening began with a heartfelt performance by Margo Price, followed by Jackson Browne, who delivered a masterful set that included a duet with Staples on the timeless classic "The Weight." When Staples took the stage, the energy in the room shifted as she performed songs like "Freedom Highway," an anthem tied to the Selma to Montgomery marches. Staples' set list included 14 songs (including a Talking Heads cover), before an amazing encore of "I'll Take You There." Her presence was commanding, her music both a celebration and a call to reflection.

For those who attended, including Magellan employees and their guests, the concert was more than entertainment. It was a chance to witness a living legend and honor her contributions to music and social justice. Mavis Staples continues to inspire, and this celebration affirmed her place as a cornerstone of American music and history.

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Magellan Corporation brought the thrill of football to life on December 5, 2024, with a special Skills & Drills event at Halas Hall, the legendary home of the Chicago Bears. Employees, their families, and friends—50 in total—enjoyed a night filled with sports, fun, and behind-the-scenes access to the Bears’ HQ.

The event featured football drills and skill stations led by former Bears wide receiver Anthony Morgan and fullback Jason McKie. Morgan, known for his speed and determination during his time with the Bears from 1991 to 1993, inspired participants with his enthusiasm and tips. McKie, who played for the Bears from 2003 to 2009 and now serves as the team’s radio sideline reporter, brought his expertise and charisma to the field. Both players made the evening extra special by signing autographs and taking photos with attendees.

Kids of all ages had a blast tackling drills and testing their football skills, with lots of grins as they ran through agility courses and perfected their passes. Parents joined in the action too, cheering the little stinkers on and taking part in some of the drills themselves.

After the activities, guests were treated to a guided tour of Halas Hall, including exclusive insights into the team’s state-of-the-art facilities. The evening concluded with a tasty dinner in the PNC Center, where attendees bonded over delicious food while watching the live broadcast of the Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions Thursday Night Football game.

The Skills & Drills event showcased Magellan's commitment to bringing its team together through unique and memorable experiences. From kids enjoying their moment on the field to employees and friends connecting over a shared love of football, the evening left everyone with smiles and stories to share.

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Magellan was honored to serve as the Presenting Sponsor for The World War II Foundation’s Gala, on November 14, 2024, at the Embassy of France in Washington, D.C. The event featured the premiere of Dad’s Secret War: France 1944, a powerful documentary chronicling the covert missions of the American OSS and British SOE during World War II. The gala paid tribute to World War II veterans, Holocaust survivors, and the enduring legacy of the Greatest Generation, underscoring the importance of preserving these vital stories.

The event also included moving tributes to five World War II veterans and six Holocaust survivors, featuring presentations of flags flown over Omaha Beach and handmade shadow boxes honoring their service. Attendees were captivated by Dad’s Secret War: France 1944, narrated by Kevin Bacon, which brought to life the courage and ingenuity of the unsung heroes of the Allied effort.

Magellan Corporation is proud to support initiatives that preserve the stories of World War II for future generations. Sponsoring this gala aligns with our values of honoring history and fostering education about the resilience, courage, and unity that defined the Greatest Generation.

We extend our gratitude to The World War II Foundation for the opportunity to support their mission and celebrate the lives and legacies of those who served.

Magellan was thrilled to host WXRT Chicago's own Terri Hemmert, who headlined a Lunch & Learn on Tuesday, November 12 at our offices. A true radio legend, we appreciated learning a bit of the trailblazing accomplishments of Terri, cornerstone of Chicago’s airwaves.

This year, Terri marked her 50th anniversary with WXRT. Known for her groundbreaking role as Chicago’s first female morning-drive host in 1981, Terri’s influence extends far beyond radio. For decades, she has hosted Breakfast with the Beatles and inspired thousands through her teaching at Columbia College, where she shares the history of rock with future generations. Terri’s impact on the community is just as profound through her work on social justice initiatives. A true icon, she was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2010.

She wove together her encyclopedic knowledge of music with personal stories of her interactions with some of the greats. From Mavis Staples to Sir Paul McCartney, Terri has met and befriended countless artists who shaped the landscape of rock, jazz, soul, alternative and more. After her talk, Magellan team and guests enjoyed a Greek feast, while Terri spun records and regaled us with more storytelling. It was an honor to host Terri and her colleagues from Audacy on this memorable afternoon.

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Magellan is proud to support our servicemen and women all year round.

On Thursday, November 7, Magellan hosted 50 service members and their families from Great Lakes Naval Base to a day at Halas Hall.  Guests were there for the live airing of Chicago Bears Weekly Live Radio Show, featuring ESPN 1000 play-by-play announcer Jeff Joniak and 1985 Bears alum and ESPN 1000 color commentator Tom Thayer, with special guest current Bears Safety Kevin  Byard III.

The three gave insights into the successes and failures of the team on the gridiron and what the rest of the season might look like.

Organized through the Navy’s department of Moral, Welfare and Recreation, guests and family members from Great Lakes enjoyed a terrific dinner spread, drinks, were invited to grab some autographs during commercial breaks and (always!) left with some swag from their favorite monsters of the midway.

We are also committed to hiring veterans, and four fabulous members of our staff contribute immeasurably to Magellan's success. David Twiford, Matthew Bell, Larry Norwood and Adam Shaw,  thank you for your service -- we are grateful!

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A day to celebrate two of the greats!

Frank Paolillo our EVP and Chief of Commercial Operations, has been Magellan for 35 years! Frank has been boots on the ground nearly since our inception, and helped shape the company into what it is today. He is tireless, endless in his knowledge of our business and the marketplace, and a true delight to work with. His dedication and leadership have been pivotal to our success.

Emily Ricci, Vice President of Materials Management, is celebrating an impressive 25 years with Magellan. Over the years, Emily has excelled in multiple roles, contributing significantly to our growth. She is thoughtful, meticulous, and a kind soul.

During the celebration, stories were told (but what is said in our Board Room stays in our Board Room!), and the gathering was followed by a tasty lunch.

We’re grateful for the passion, commitment, and positive energy Frank & Emily bring to our team!